Integrated Listening System Focus Program
iLs Focus is an exercise program for improving brain and body function. The activities are fun and can easily be customised for all ages and skill levels.
The combined elements of iLs Focus – music, movement and language – begin with building the foundational supports for body organisation. As the body becomes organised, so does the brain. With increased organisation the brain is able to process information from our environment, sustain attention and learn.
The beauty of addressing brain function at this foundational level is that we become mentally and emotionally resilient, effective at school or work and more socially adept. For example,
Dynamic balance, proprioceptive abilities improve – a child finally learns to ride a bicycle
With faster processing speed ‐ student pays attention and catches on more quickly
Eyes and ears are working together – third grader is now reading at grade level
Gross and fine motor systems are integrated – handwriting improves
Emotions are controlled– no detention, more friends at school
Stronger working memory – better at math and reading comprehension
Sustained attention – no longer distracting others and less impulsive
Who Benefits?
iLs is for adults and children.Clients who demonstrate delays and/or difficulties in any of the following areas:
Concentration/Attention/Memory
Chronic pain
Stress / Anxiety
Speech, Language
Written Expression & Reading Comprehension
Behaviour, Social Communication
Motor Skills
Sensory Processing
Processing speed
Sleep Issues
How does iLs work?
iLs is based on the fact that we can change our brain – we can essentially re-wire it through specific and repeated stimulation, a concept known as neuroplasticity. As in building strength and endurance with physical exercise, we are able to build neurological pathways and synaptic activity at any age.
iLs trains for brain/body integration through a staged approach, starting with the fundamentals of sensory integration and then extending through more complex cognitive functions, including language, self-expression and social skills.
The notion that the brain is able to change in response to stimulation, an ability known as “neuroplasticity,” is now so widely accepted it can be called fact. iLs programs are based on this principle, providing gentle and specific stimulation in order to activate the neural pathways used in the processing of sensory information. Neuronal connections in these pathways are strengthened and new connections are established through repeated sessions of multi-sensory input. iLs programs are customized, i.e. individualized for each person’s therapeutic goals.
Hollie uses the iLs core therapy programs from the iLs Focus Series : a multi-sensory program which combines auditory, balance and visual exercises.
All Focus systems include music programs loaded onto an iTouch, air/bone conduction headphones, and Integration Kit (movement and balance equipment and guidebook). The Focus Series allows clinicians and educators to select specific iLs programs to be loaded onto the iPod for their clients’ needs.
What is iLs used for?
Applications include
sensory processing and body organization
learning/academic and attention difficulties
symptoms related to autism spectrum (ASD)
cognitive efficiency and poor memory
head injury and stroke rehab
stress and anxiety
chronic pain
How iLs Influences Attention and Regulation
How iLs Influences Auditory Processing
In this video, Dr. Hallowell and Dr. Minson, experts in their fields of ADHD and sound therapy, respectively, discuss how iLs works. They explain how the multi-sensory input of iLs is used to improve functional outcomes:
Try it in the Self Crafted Life Program
Hollie Bakerboljkovac uses the iLs Focus in Sessions with people where appropriate. Phone 0482 955 340 to discuss.
Hollie has been using the iLs with her own children since 2012. She became certified in the Focus System in 2018, and has worked with a number of families locally, with incredible results. Previous families are willing to discuss their experience of iLs.